Common Sense with Bari Weiss $5 / month

Common Sense with Bari Weiss critiques contemporary issues impacting society from the perspectives of free speech, scientific inquiry, and cultural shifts. It explores themes around gender dysphoria, debate censorship, autism, personal values, public controversies, mental health, political correctness, scientific skepticism, cultural identity, historical context, and societal purpose.

Free Speech and Censorship Gender and Identity Education and Debate Health and Science Cultural and Social Issues Mental Health Politics and Public Opinion Historical and Cultural Identity Personal Values and Purpose Science and Skepticism

The hottest Substack posts of Common Sense with Bari Weiss

And their main takeaways

Ross Douthat: Everyone Should Believe in God

2179 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Belief Secularism Spirituality Conversion
  1. Many people are feeling drawn back to religion after a period of being more secular. It's like there’s a little spark in the younger generations wanting to explore faith again.
  2. High-profile figures are converting to religion, suggesting a trend where even the educated elite are rethinking their beliefs. This shows that curiosity about spirituality is growing, even among the skeptics.
  3. However, there’s a worry about why people are turning to religion. It's important to think about the reasons behind this interest in faith to ensure it’s meaningful and genuine.

New Yorkers Aren’t Judging Eric Adams

760 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policies Political Behavior Corruption
  1. Many New Yorkers are not reacting strongly to Mayor Eric Adams' recent corruption indictment. Instead of judgment, there seems to be a sense of indifference or acceptance among residents.
  2. People in the community still show excitement and support for the mayor when they see him in public. Teenagers and locals are eager to take photos with him, showing a positive image despite the scandal.
  3. The situation reflects a broader attitude where some voters may overlook political scandals if they feel a personal connection to the leader. It shows how charisma can outweigh controversy for some constituents.

A Showdown in Massachusetts Schools over Antisemitism. Plus. . .

1831 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Education Voting Rights Social Issues Public Safety
  1. There is a growing concern about antisemitism being taught in schools in Massachusetts, leading to debates between lawmakers and teacher unions.
  2. Some New Yorkers are discussing the possibility of allowing noncitizens to vote, with opinions divided on how it affects citizenship value.
  3. The Biden administration is taking steps to protect migrant children from human traffickers, focusing on their safety over the anonymity of sponsors.

Bernard-Henri Lévy: Europe Must Unite or Die

992 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Europe U.S. Relations Security Military International Affairs
  1. Europe needs to become more self-reliant since the U.S. can no longer be counted on for support. This means taking responsibility for their own security and not relying on American assistance.
  2. There's a sense of urgency for European nations to unite in response to challenges like the conflict in Ukraine. If they don't come together, they're likely to face further aggression from Russia.
  3. Currently, Europe lacks a solid plan for long-term security and support for Ukraine, which shows a weakness in their response to current threats. More decisive actions are needed to prepare for the future.

Martin Gurri: What Does It Mean to Be a Man?

2290 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Identity Masculinity Philosophy Society Values
  1. Men have always been seen as protectors and providers, expected to show courage and strength. This means that traditionally, a man's role is to defend what is valued in society.
  2. In today's world, the question of what men protect against has changed. Instead of physical dangers, it often involves more abstract threats like emotional well-being and societal issues.
  3. The role of men is evolving, reflecting a shift from direct physical protection to navigating modern complexities, where the state often takes on the responsibility for basic needs like food and safety.
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Matti Friedman: The Family that Never Came Home

788 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events International relations Human Rights Media Social Issues
  1. A family from Israel faced a tragic loss, as the husband returned home alive but his wife and two children did not. Their deaths shocked the community, making it hard for people to accept the reality at first.
  2. On a certain day, masked individuals displayed four coffins at a ceremony in Gaza, while Israeli TV chose to show happy pictures of the deceased taken before the conflict. This highlights the stark difference in how narratives are presented in media.
  3. The piece reflects on the emotional impact of loss during war and how it can affect families, leading to deep sorrow and disbelief among their loved ones.

Betsy DeVos: Shut Down the Department of Education

6654 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Government reform Public funding Political Opinion
  1. The Department of Education has spent over $1 trillion since it started, but student performance gaps have only worsened. This shows that the department isn't fixing the issues it was made to address.
  2. Most students are falling behind, with many fourth graders struggling to read and do basic math. The scores for the lowest performing students are the worst they've ever been.
  3. The Department of Education mainly acts as a middleman that complicates funding without improving education. It doesn't run schools or employ teachers, so some believe it should be shut down.

The Men Who Lost Their Babies

5393 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Reproductive Health Mental health Women's Rights
  1. Men experience deep emotional pain during pregnancy loss, but their feelings are often overlooked by society and medical professionals. This can lead to feelings of isolation and grief that are not acknowledged.
  2. Doctors sometimes say insensitive things that can hurt men grieving the loss of a child. It shows a lack of understanding about how fathers feel and are affected by these tragedies.
  3. There's a stereotype that men don’t have a role in pregnancy and childbirth discussions, which can leave them feeling sidelined. It's important to recognize that fathers also have emotional connections to their unborn children.

EXCLUSIVE: PBS Disappears DEI Department in Wake of Free Press Investigation

4029 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Media Social Issues
  1. PBS has decided to close its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department. This happened after an investigation by The Free Press raised questions about the department's role in relation to an executive order.
  2. The CEO of PBS informed staff about the departure of two DEI executives. She mentioned that this move was to ensure compliance with the president's order.
  3. This change at PBS reflects broader tensions and changes in how organizations handle diversity initiatives, especially under political scrutiny.

Welcome to Hamassachusetts

2652 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Education Legislation Activism Public Policy
  1. There is a growing concern about antisemitism in Massachusetts public schools. Lawmakers are highlighting this issue during discussions and hearings.
  2. A recent event featured a state representative showing a folded dollar bill as a symbol of antisemitism, sparking reactions from teachers and union leaders.
  3. The leader of the Massachusetts Teachers Association did not make a judgment when asked if that imagery was antisemitic, reflecting a complex conversation around these topics.

Trump’s Opening Move Against Migrant Sex Trafficking

1641 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Crime Policy Government Human Rights
  1. New rules are being put in place to protect migrant children from sex trafficking. Now, all sponsors must get fingerprinted and have their backgrounds checked.
  2. There's a big concern about fraud in the sponsorship process for unaccompanied minors. The government wants to make sure that only safe and legitimate sponsors can take care of these kids.
  3. Some people worry that these new rules might slow down the process for getting kids to safe homes. They are also concerned about the potential for sharing sponsor information with immigration enforcement.

The Rule of Law After the Vibe Shift

765 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Constitutional Law Political criticism Judicial system Federal Government
  1. Trump is using a lot of executive orders to make changes quickly, without waiting for new laws, which has sparked debate about his respect for the Constitution.
  2. Some people worry that Trump's harsh criticism of judges who don’t agree with him could hurt the fairness of the courts and lead to bigger legal issues.
  3. A controversial move, like the DOJ dismissing charges against a public figure, might be legal, but it raised eyebrows because it broke traditional rules of how the justice system usually operates.

Nellie Bowles: The Triumph of the Plastic Straw

2912 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Policy Public Perception Legislation Media influence
  1. A 9-year-old created a big number about daily plastic straw use, which caught the attention of the media and sparked a movement.
  2. States and cities started banning plastic straws based on that big number, but many didn't question its accuracy.
  3. The shift from plastic to paper straws became a popular environmental push, even though some people found the paper straws less enjoyable.

The Prophet of Trump’s Second Term

3399 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Populism Foreign Policy Bureaucracy Administrative state
  1. Angelo Codevilla introduced important ideas about a 'ruling class' in America, suggesting that this group has too much power and operates against ordinary citizens. His thoughts on this have changed the way people talk about politics today.
  2. Codevilla's influence can be seen in many government changes during Trump's administration, including shifts in foreign policy and reductions in federal positions. His students and followers are now in key roles, actively working on his ideas.
  3. Key political phrases like 'Deep State' and 'administrative state' originated from Codevilla. These terms have shaped how many people understand and discuss the current political landscape.

How to Dress Like a Gentleman—And Why

3783 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Fashion Style Identity Communication Gender
  1. Dressing well shows that you care about your appearance and how you present yourself. It's not childish; it's actually a sign of maturity.
  2. A good wardrobe can make a big difference in how you're perceived, especially in professional settings. Wearing a suit and tie can elevate your status.
  3. Transitioning from a uniform to formal wear can be challenging, but it’s important to adapt to new environments and expectations. Knowing how to dress for the occasion is key.

Kemi Badenoch: ‘I Don’t Think DOGE Is Radical Enough’

1126 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy International Culture
  1. Kemi Badenoch believes that the weakness in values is a bigger threat than external dangers, like Russia or China. She thinks it's important to stand firm on core beliefs rather than being overly tolerant of harmful ideas.
  2. She supports the idea that Europe needs to toughen up against things that could undermine its security, as highlighted by J.D. Vance's speech at a recent conference.
  3. Badenoch emphasizes that it's not liberal values themselves that are the issue but the extreme focus on tolerance that could lead to weakening societal foundations.

The ‘Everything Is Broken’ Administration

1242 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Public Opinion Political Movements
  1. The idea of 'brokenism' helps explain different perspectives on current political figures and events. It suggests that how people view leadership and change can depend on whether they see the system as broken or not.
  2. People's views on controversial figures, like Elon Musk or Tulsi Gabbard, often reflect their feelings toward the government and its effectiveness. Those who feel strongly that the system is failing may support more radical changes.
  3. The language we use to describe political beliefs plays a big role in shaping our opinions. Understanding terms like 'brokenism' can help clarify why people have such different viewpoints.

Abigail Shrier: How the Gender Fever Finally Broke

9626 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Medical Ethics Public Policy Free speech Education
  1. There has been a significant shift in the conversation around gender identity, with actions taken to limit certain medical practices for children. This shows a growing recognition of the complexities involved with gender issues.
  2. Concerns have been raised about how young people, particularly young women, are navigating their identities. There were many urgent appeals for surgeries that might have long-term consequences.
  3. The debate around gender identity has become highly polarized, with some voices being suppressed, especially those that challenge popular narratives. This highlights the tension between free speech and activism in this area.

Things Worth Remembering: ‘A Game Most Like Life’

4136 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Football Coaching Culture Events Leadership
  1. Vince Lombardi believed that football, like life, teaches important lessons about hard work, sacrifice, and respect. These values are essential in achieving our goals.
  2. The Free Press is evolving and will bring in new voices for its column 'Things Worth Remembering' as Douglas Murray steps back. This change reflects the ongoing journey of the publication.
  3. Super Bowl Sunday is a reminder of Lombardi's legacy, emphasizing the lessons learned through sports. His famous quote on winning reminds us of the competitive drive we all have.

TGIF: Mar-a-Gaza

4971 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Policy Foreign affairs Public Opinion
  1. Trump has proposed a controversial plan to take over the Gaza Strip for real estate development, aiming to create a luxurious area reminiscent of the Riviera.
  2. Musk's DOGE team is shaking up government spending, looking closely at agencies like USAID, which has ties to political funding and previous controversial figures.
  3. There are concerns about the influence and past actions of individuals within the DOGE initiative, highlighting potential issues with government reform efforts.

A High Schooler Graduated with a 3.4 GPA. He Can’t Read His Diploma. Plus. . .

2480 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Legal issues Government Public Policy Social Issues
  1. A high school graduate with a decent GPA didn't learn how to read, highlighting serious issues in education today. This has sparked legal action against the school district for not providing proper education.
  2. Many people agree that kids today are not performing as well academically, partly due to disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. This has led to concerns about declining intelligence and skills among young students.
  3. Recent political events have raised questions about justice and accountability, especially regarding figures like Trump and his pardons for individuals involved in corruption. Such actions have sparked debate about fairness in the legal system.

What Sexual Liberation Really Looks Like

1794 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Feminism Sexuality Society Gender Relationships
  1. Hookup culture mainly helps men while often making things harder for women. It's important to recognize how this affects women's experiences.
  2. Casual sex isn't necessarily a good thing for women, and deeper connections with partners can lead to more fulfilling relationships.
  3. Not all sexual desires should be acted on, and women don't have to participate in hookup culture just because it's popular.

Andrew Roberts: The Historical Case for Trump’s Gaza Plan

3366 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Conflict Studies Global Governance
  1. Countries that start aggressive wars often lose their sovereignty or governments when they are defeated. This is shown in history with several examples.
  2. The world often assumes the Palestinians still have the right to govern themselves, but their actions in conflict could change that.
  3. Historical precedents show that unprovoked attacks lead to significant consequences for the attackers, often resulting in loss of power and territory.

Why We’re Obsessed with JFK Conspiracies

741 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conspiracy Theories History Politics Media Film
  1. Many people are really curious about JFK's assassination and the theories surrounding it. These theories often stem from a mix of history and pop culture.
  2. The 1991 movie _JFK_ played a big role in shaping public interest in these conspiracy theories. It questioned the government's involvement in the assassination and got people talking.
  3. Recently, the idea of releasing more documents on JFK's assassination has garnered attention, especially with Donald Trump's involvement. It shows that the topic is still relevant and controversial today.

Dreaming About Going Back to the Land? I Did It.

9993 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Lifestyle Nature Personal Growth Education Food
  1. Living on a farm brings a deep understanding of nature's realities. It's a reminder that not everything can be controlled, like waiting for hens to lay eggs.
  2. The transition from city life to a rural lifestyle can be challenging and unexpected. It often requires tough decisions, like dealing with the life and death of animals.
  3. Nature teaches valuable life lessons that many people might overlook in a digital age. Embracing these lessons can lead to personal growth and a reevaluation of what really matters in life.

Why Women Fall for Wellness Bullshit

1061 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Nutrition Wellness Trends Influencer Culture
  1. Many women feel a strong need to be understood and validated, especially when experiencing health issues. This desire makes them more likely to follow wellness trends that promise relief.
  2. The story of Belle Gibson shows the dangers of wellness influencers who exploit the struggles of others for gain. Her narrative reflects a broader issue where people's real pain is often dismissed.
  3. Skepticism from medical professionals about women's health issues can lead to feelings of desperation. This can push women towards unproven wellness solutions in hopes of finding someone who believes and helps them.

A Law Could Give Noncitizens in NYC the Vote. Not All Immigrants Support It.

1057 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Voting Rights Immigration Legislation Public Opinion Local government
  1. There is a proposal in New York City to allow noncitizens to vote, which has sparked a lot of debate. Some people find the idea strange or wrong, while others think it's a matter of human rights.
  2. Not all immigrants agree with the idea of voting rights for noncitizens. This shows that the immigrant community has different opinions on political participation.
  3. The discussion around this law highlights a bigger conversation about who gets to vote in America and what that means for democracy. It raises questions about representation and rights.

The Vibe Shift Comes to the Super Bowl. Plus. . .

2582 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Public Opinion Political parties Education
  1. This year's Super Bowl showed a shift in culture with new messages like 'Choose Love' in the end zone. The halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar mixed patriotism with social commentary.
  2. Democrats are trying to defend USAID amid controversies, but many people believe foreign aid is excessive, which could backfire on their political support.
  3. American public education continues to struggle, with students falling behind, and some educators are allegedly trying to obscure the problem instead of fixing it.

Trump: Free the Hostages or ‘All Hell Will Break Out.’ Plus...

2142 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political News Government Policy Public Opinion Elections Media Criticism
  1. Trump has issued a strong warning to Hamas, saying they must release all hostages by a certain deadline or there will be severe consequences. This has raised tensions in an already fragile ceasefire situation.
  2. The conversation around cancel culture is changing, with some claiming it's over and discussing what might come next. People are concerned about where this shift could lead us in terms of public discourse.
  3. There's a debate about whether Kanye West may need a conservatorship due to his troubling behavior. Some believe it's important to ensure he gets the help he needs while balancing concerns about autonomy and mental health.

Suzy Weiss: Comedians Should Not Be Hot

760 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Comedy Fashion Trends Media Entertainment
  1. Comedians are often expected to be funny and not overly fashionable. This idea suggests that dressing too well can take away from their comedic persona.
  2. There is a concern that some comedians are focusing more on their appearance rather than their humor. Being stylish might not mix well with the rawness expected in comedy.
  3. The conversation reflects broader societal expectations on how different professions, like comedy, are perceived in terms of looks versus talent. It hints at a belief that authenticity in comedy is key.

EXCLUSIVE: A High Schooler Graduated with a 3.4 GPA. He Couldn’t Even Read.

1711 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🚌 Education Policy Reform Legal Assessment Access
  1. A high school student graduated with a 3.4 GPA but couldn't read or spell his own name. This raises concerns about the education system's effectiveness.
  2. The student is suing his school district, claiming they didn't provide him with the education he needed, which is required by law.
  3. A federal appeals court agreed with the student, saying his lack of education caused him serious harm and that he was capable of learning to read.

All Men Want to Be Heroes

1316 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Narratives Traditions Masculinity
  1. Men often seek opportunities to feel heroic and valued in society. It's important for communities to create situations where they can step up and make a difference.
  2. Experiences shared around communal spaces, like bars, highlight the desire for connection and action among men. These moments can lead to camaraderie and support among peers.
  3. Society's perception of masculinity can impact how men express their emotions and take action. Allowing them space to be heroes can lead to healthier relationships and communities.

This Progressive Has a Plan to Win Trump’s Base. Steve Bannon Calls It ‘Brilliant.’

1493 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Election Campaigns Public Policy Political Discourse Media Relations
  1. Ro Khanna wants to connect with voters who feel ignored, especially those who support Trump. He believes he can win them over with the right message.
  2. There was a heated exchange between Khanna and J.D. Vance about a controversial figure who made racist comments. Khanna thinks it's important to discuss these issues openly.
  3. Khanna feels that the political climate should encourage respectful conversations rather than insults. He values honest dialogue over divisive arguments.

How American Educators Are Conning Kids

2411 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🚌 Education Student Performance Teaching Methods
  1. American students are falling behind in education, yet standards are being lowered instead of improved. This approach might make everyone feel better, but it doesn't help kids succeed.
  2. Experts agree that the U.S. education system is not world-class and needs major improvements. It's important for a superpower to provide high-quality education.
  3. The perception is that educators are not being honest about students' abilities, similar to saying everyone is a great swimmer even when many are struggling. This could harm students in the long run.

The Sad Saga of Bud Light

2986 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
💼 Business Marketing Branding Corporate culture Consumer behavior Economic Impact
  1. Bud Light was once America's favorite beer, but it lost its top spot after a marketing move focused on social issues. Many customers turned away from the brand.
  2. The shift towards diversity and inclusion in corporate strategies can sometimes backfire. For Bud Light, it cost them loyal customers and sales.
  3. It's important for companies to balance social goals with their business interests. Ignoring customer preferences can lead to serious repercussions.

Defending USAID Is Political Suicide for Democrats

2304 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Legislation Government Political parties
  1. Defending USAID could be a risky move for Democrats, especially after a tough election loss. They might need to rethink their approach to avoid alienating voters.
  2. Many voters are frustrated with government bureaucracy and foreign aid spending, which could hurt Democrats politically. USAID, with its large budget, is a prime example of this.
  3. Despite concerns about waste, USAID does provide essential services like health and nutrition aid to those in need. Balancing this may be key for Democrats as they consider their next steps.

Eithan Haim: ‘We Took On the Federal Leviathan and We Won’

7410 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal Healthcare Civil Rights Government Politics
  1. Dr. Eithan Haim faced serious legal trouble after exposing a children's hospital for performing gender surgeries on minors. He believed it was important to stand up against this practice.
  2. After a hard-fought battle, the charges against him were dropped by the Trump administration, allowing him to move on with his life and celebrate with his family.
  3. Despite the financial and emotional toll, Haim and his wife feel proud of their actions and believe they made the world a better place for children.

The Free Press in Love

1136 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Romance Relationships Personal Stories Narratives
  1. Love can be found in the most unexpected places, like rooftops and newsrooms. It's about recognizing those moments wherever they happen.
  2. Childhood crushes can leave a lasting impression. Even years later, we remember the special feelings we had for that one person.
  3. Jealousy can be a real emotion, especially for kids. It shows how much we care about those we like, even if we don't express it openly.

TGIF: War Room Correspondent

4739 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Public Opinion Elections Policy
  1. Trump's press team is changing how the White House briefing room works by opening it to more journalists, which is a big shift from the past. It means that anyone can now apply for access, rather than just be invited.
  2. Federal workers are upset about being told to return to the office, with some even suing over how the message was delivered. The email they received wasn't well received, and many are worried about juggling work and childcare.
  3. Colombia's president wrote a strange poem in response to Trump after initially refusing to take back migrants. This unusual communication shows the unpredictable nature of international relations in the current political climate.